From the Front Range to downtown Denver to quaint mountain towns like Leadville and Estes Park, Colorado is full of incredible destinations to explore. Some of the best things to see? The amazing Colorado landmarks scattered throughout the state, of course.
Here are our top 10 must-visit landmarks in the state of Colorful Colorado.
Top Landmarks in Colorado
Colorado Landmarks
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Arguably one of the most stunning open-air amphitheatres in the world, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is absolutely gorgeous. Carved into the stunning sandstone that characterizes this section of the state, this amphitheatre has a long and storied history. It has hosted some of the most famous acts in any genre, from the Wu-Tang Clan to U2 to James Taylor and everything in between.
It’s common for visitors to swing by the amphitheatre even if there’s no show scheduled at all, simply to take in the sights, and browse the gift shop.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located in the southwestern suburbs of Denver, Red Rocks is nearby to a ton of things to see, do, and explore, including several fantastic state parks and wildernesses. Grab a hike at Chatfield State Park before heading to spots like the Denver Botanical Gardens.
When it comes time to settle in for the night, head back to Chatfield State Park to snag a campsite and rest up for more adventures.
The Stanley Hotel
Tucked into the quaint and historic mountain town of Estes Park, the Stanley Hotel is so much more than a place to stay. It was actually the inspiration behind none other than Stephen King’s famous thriller, The Shining. Don’t worry though, people stay here all the time without experiencing hauntings or going crazy!
There is, however, a small labyrinth planted near the hotel in case you want to stage a nonviolent reenactment of some of the film’s most iconic scenes.
If you’re not staying in the hotel, you can still take guided tours for more information about the grounds and its history.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Estes Park offers nearly endless options for things to do and places to eat. Check out the Estes Park Aerial Tramway or the Open Air Adventure Park. You can even head into Rocky Mountain National Park!
There are plenty of camping opportunities around. One good choice is Paradise of the River.
Rocky Mountain National Park
So many folks who make their way to Colorado do so looking for that Colorado Rocky Mountain High. Luckily, when you visit Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll definitely find just that.
Criss-crossed with hiking trails, this massive wilderness is truly an outdoor adventure-lover’s delight. Not into hiking? It also offers plenty of easy-to-access views to those who simply want to cruise through in their car. No matter what you like to do, make sure you stop by a visitor center to get your National Parks Passport stamped and also pick up some info about the best to-dos available for your skill and interest level!
Attractions and Camping Nearby
With so much to do inside the park, you’ll certainly be well occupied. That said, if you’re in need of some civilization, head back to Estes Park for a spot of lunch or a walk amidst some cutesy shops.
We recommend camping in the national park, if at all possible. This really enhances the experience, as it allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the place.
Garden of the Gods
Easily one of the most iconic sights in the entire state of Colorado, Garden of the Gods rises with its towering sandstone formations above the landscape below.
The Garden of the Gods is an excellent place to catch a Colorado sunrise or sunset, and the hiking trails and scenic drives within make the landmark accessible to visitors of all fitness and ability levels. To top it all off, the park offers free admission!
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Just outside of the community of Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is in the backyard of one of the coolest cities in the state. There are plenty of incredible coffee shops to choose from along with The Broadmoor Seven Falls and other fantastic natural Colorado landmarks.
Garden of the Gods RV Resort is a wonderful place to stay for awhile and puts you close to all the action.
Pikes Peak
The highest summit in the southern Front Range, Pikes Peak has earned its reputation as “America’s Mountain”.
Fortunately, the infrastructure is set up so that you don’t have to be a mountaineer to see the incredible view from the top. You can drive up or even take a shuttle, so you can simply sit back and enjoy the view. That said, if you really like to work for your rewards, consider the formidable hike up Barr Trail, which involves hiking 12 miles one way and ascending more than 7,000 feet of elevation gain.
No matter how you get there, at the top you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas as well as some freshly-made donuts that are famous for a reason. They just don’t taste the same at the bottom!
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Although it may be the tallest, Pikes Peak is far from the only mountain in the area, and there are plenty of local wildernesses to explore. Consider adding Eleven Mile State Park or Cheyenne Mountain State Park to your itinerary, or drop by the Beaver Creek State Wildlife Area.
Colorado Springs is located nearby and offers everything you might need during your stay as well as campgrounds such as the lovely Foot of the Rockies RV Resort.
The Manitou Incline
The Manitou Incline is another great landmark local to Colorado Springs. The washed-out remains of an old funicular, which used to bring passengers to the top of the mountain, this incline is now the site of a challenging uphill hike that’s much like a natural StairMaster.
During the hike, you’ll ascend 2,000 feet of elevation gain in just under a single mile, climbing 2,768 steps until you reach your destination. The view and the incredible sense of accomplishment are worth it, though!
Attractions and Camping Nearby
After a climb like this, you’re certainly going to want to refuel with a nice, hearty meal. Head on back down to Colorado Springs to find some place to eat. You may also want to hit up attractions like Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Cave of the Winds Mountain Park.
When you’re finished exploring, head to Pike’s Peak RV Park to unwind.
Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Although not for the faint of heart, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is certainly a landmark worth adding to you Colorado itinerary. Towering nearly a thousand feet over the rushing waters below, this suspension bridge is easily one of the most famous in America, and is surrounded by a variety of other attractions geared towards thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies.
If simply wandering across this bridge is not enough heart-pounding for you, you can also ride the Royal Rush Skycoaster or zipline across the gorge. Afraid of heights? Don’t worry! It’s an incredible photo opp even if you never step foot on the bridge itself.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Canon City is the closest town to the bridge. It offers osm shopping and dining as well as attractions like the Museum of Colorado Prisons and the Royal Gorge Route Railroad.
The town also plays host to campgrounds, including Mountain View RV Resort at Royal Gorge, so finding a place to stay is a cinch.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
While “sand dunes” might not be the first thing you think of when you think Colorado, make no mistake, this state has got them. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve contains some 30 square miles of towering sand dunes and is home to the tallest dunes in North America, with some reaching as much as 750 feet in height.
All that said, the park is more than just an epic sandbox. It also contains thousands more acres of grasslands, wetlands, conifer and aspen forests, alpine lakes, and tundra. Hiking trails and other outdoor recreation opportunities abound.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located in south-central Colorado, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is close to the community of Alamosa where you can visit all rations like the San Luis Valley Museum. There are also a number of natural areas around for exploring.
Trinidad Lake State Park is a great spot to snag a campsite nearby and features some gorgeous views.
Mesa Verde National Park
Another fascinating Colorado national park and famous U.S. historical landmark is Mesa Verde National Park. This park preserves and interprets some of the oldest and best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan in the world, and offers visitors a first-hand view not only of incredible ancient architecture but also petroglyphs.
A rich agricultural site, the park also includes a visitor and research center as well as a museum in order to better help visitors become familiar with the artifacts found here and their significance. Guided tours and other educational events make the park come even further to life for visitors of all ages.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Closest to the city of Cortez and not far from Durango, Mesa Verde National Park is located in the southwestern corner of Colorado. It’s an easy driving distance from other significant sites like Canyon of the Ancients National Monument and San Juan National Forest.
The best place to camp while visiting this park? Onsite, of course! Make sure to book a site at Morefield Campground in the park.
Colorado National Monument
Like a version of the Grand Canyon transported a few hundred miles northeast, Colorado National Monument is an incredible desert landscape. It is characterized by sandstone rock formations, deep canyon crevices, and short desert scrub flora punctuating it all. Drive though and perhaps encounter wild bighorn sheep who graze here. You could also take more time in the area to plan a hike or backpacking trip.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located just outside Grand Junction, Colorado National Monument has the unique benefit of a big city just down the road. This means you have plenty of opportunities to dine and shop or browse museums like Museum of the West and Eureka! McConnell Science Museum.
When it comes time to park the RV, head over to the Grand Junction KOA Holiday for a wonderful stay.
Planning an RV Trip to Colorado
From finding the best campgrounds to getting you set up in your perfect rental RV, RVshare has you covered for your RV trip to Colorado. Our site will help you find the best state parks in Colorado as well as all the national parks in the country, including the many in this colorful state. Enjoy your incredible journey!
